Austrian designer Schoechl created this well-balanced coastal cruiser during the height of the fiberglass sailboat boom, with production running from 1989 to 2005. Built by Schöchl Yachtbau in Austria, the Sunbeam 32 represents solid European construction values with 173 hulls completed over its 16-year production run. The design emphasizes seaworthiness and comfort over pure performance, evident in its generous beam of 10.25 feet and substantial displacement of 9,050 pounds. With 40% of that weight positioned low in the ballast, the fin keel configuration delivers excellent stability for coastal cruising and short offshore passages. The masthead sloop rig carries a conservative 411 square feet of sail area, making this boat manageable for couples or small crews. Notable characteristics include a comfortable motion in seaway conditions, reflected in the moderate comfort ratio, and predictable handling that appeals to cruising sailors. The deep 5.75-foot draft provides good windward ability while limiting access to shallow anchorages. Hull speed approaches 7 knots, adequate for passage-making between harbors. This Austrian-built cruiser suits sailors seeking a well-constructed boat for coastal exploration and weekend cruising, with enough capability for occasional longer passages in suitable weather conditions.
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What is the Sunbeam 32's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Sunbeam 32 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.19. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Sunbeam 32's comfort ratio?
The Sunbeam 32 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 22.61. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Sunbeam 32 safe for offshore sailing?
The Sunbeam 32 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.97. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Sunbeam 32?
The theoretical hull speed of the Sunbeam 32 is 6.83 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Sunbeam 32 weigh?
The Sunbeam 32 has a displacement of 9,050.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 32.25 ft.
Who designed the Sunbeam 32?
The Sunbeam 32 was designed by Schoechl, first built in 1989.